Press Release

Dr. Kirstin Henze Leica Microsystems GmbH

Tel. +49 (0)6441/29-2550 Ernst-Leitz-Straße 17-37

Fax +49 (0)6441/29-2527 DE-35578 Wetzlar

www.leica-microsystems.com

Press Release

May 18, 2010

The Smart Solution for Superior Contrast in Fluorescence Imaging

Intelligent Structured Illumination Microscopy by Leica Microsystems

Wetzlar, Germany. Resolution and contrast are crucially important for fluorescence applications in widefield microscopy. Undesired haze effects that reduce contrast can be minimized by using the smart principle of structured illumination. The result: fluorescence images with excellent contrast, superb axial resolution and ultra-sharp 2D sections of the specimen.

Intelligent Structured Illumination Microscopy from Leica Microsystems uses the proven OptiGrid® technique. Working in harmony with Leica’s superior quality optics, the aperture diaphragm integrated with the fluorescence light path also enhances contrast. The automatic focus function of the OptiGrid® keeps the grid structure in focus, from UV to IR light.

A unique feature of this development is that the same OptiGrid® module can be used both for upright and for inverted Leica research microscopes. Furthermore, there is no need to change the grid, as one optimized grid covers all magnifications from 10x to 100x, which offers convenience, avoids errors, and saves valuable time.

Intelligent Structured Illumination Microscopy from Leica Microsystems gives you a complete system from a single source: The OptiGrid® module integrated with Leica research microscopes is controlled by intuitive Leica MM AF software and complemented by a wide selection of fluorescence cameras.

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Leica Microsystems is a leading global designer and producer of innovative, high-tech, precision optical systems for the analysis of microstructures. It is one of the market leaders in each of its business areas: Microscopy, Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy with corresponding Imaging Systems, Specimen Preparation, and Medical Equipment. The company manufactures a broad range of products for numerous applications requiring microscopic imaging, measurement, and analysis. It also offers system solutions for life science including biotechnology and medicine, research and development of raw materials, and industrial quality assurance. The company is represented in over 100 countries with 14 manufacturing facilities in 11 countries, sales and service organizations in 19 countries and an international network of dealers. The international management is headquartered in Wetzlar, Germany.

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